Tottenham midfielder Tom Huddlestone has suffered damage to his
ankle ligaments and will visit a specialist this week to determine
how long he will be sidelined and whether his World Cup hopes are
in jeopardy.
The 23-year-old, who made his England debut last November in
the defeat to Brazil, picked up the injury in the victory over
Everton that sent Spurs back into the top four of the Premier
League on Sunday.
Huddlestone could not stand on his right foot following the
challenge by John Heitinga and despite Spurs' backroom staff being
optimistic at the time about the injury being a bang to the joint,
a scan revealed ligament damage.
Boss Harry Redknapp had established Huddlestone as a regular
in his team, starting him 30 times this season, and the injury is
seen as a huge blow due to the midfielder's form and with Spurs
already struggling with an injury crisis.
Winger Aaron Lennon has a groin strain and will rest for at
least six weeks, which also means he will be running out of time to
impress before Fabio Capello picks his squad for South Africa.
Jermaine Jenas needs a groin operation, David Bentley has a
tear in his groin, while skipper Ledley King is struggling with a
thigh injury and centre-back Jonathan Woodgate is likely to miss
the rest of the campaign.
As a result, Redknapp has recalled Jake Livermore from
Peterborough after a nine-game spell at London Road. The
20-year-old has not played in the FA Cup this season so could be in
the squad for the quarter-final against Fulham on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Spurs have confirmed Darren Eales will join the
club from West Brom at the end of the season when club secretary
John Alexander leaves to take up his new position at Manchester
United.
